After the success of the Nintendo Switch and Steam Deck, and then its own PSP, Sony has re-entered the handheld console market with the PlayStation Portal. However, this device has some features that may not appeal to all gamers.
For reference, the PlayStation Portal is just a remote player for the PS5 console. The device requires a stable internet connection and provides a means to stream your PS5 directly to your handheld console.
Is PlayStation Portal worth it? What you need to know before buying the remote player
Sony has positioned its Portal device as a way to play your PS5 without needing a TV – making it perfect for those who share TVs with family or friends, or for those who want to play in other rooms, away from the console.
It’s important to note that the PlayStation Portal is purely a Remote Play device, so it doesn’t play games locally via cartridges, discs, or onboard storage like the Switch or Steam Deck do. This means it relies on an internet connection and a PS5 console to work, and the gaming experience is strictly dependent on the strength of your Wi-Fi network.
PlayStation 5. Imagem: Elena Uve/Shutterstock
In other words, given the PlayStation Portal’s function as a PS5 streamer (it merely mirrors the console), it doesn’t play games natively or stream them from the cloud, and it doesn’t support standalone gaming. The device is designed solely so that you can play your PS5 games on your own console, but in other locations—mostly your home.
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How does PlayStation Portal work?
Setting up PlayStation Portal is simple. Simply follow the on-screen instructions to enable Remote Play with your PS5, and Portal will automatically connect to that system whenever you boot it up and pair it with Wi-Fi. Once connected, you’ll have remote access to your PS5 using the Portal’s screen and controls.
PlayStation Portal via Sony/reproduction
Transitioning gameplay from a PS5 console to the PlayStation Portal doesn’t require users to rework their control scheme. Instead, all of the buttons are in the same place, making the switch between playing on a console and Portal completely seamless—thankfully, muscle memory transfers easily.
PlayStation Portal: Price and availability
The PS Portal arrived in Brazil on June 28, 2024, costing R$1,499. Currently, the device can be found in stores such as Amazon and Kabum for R$1,439.10. For cost-benefit comparison purposes, considering that both work without the need for another console, the Nintendo Switch costs around R$1,994, while a Steam Deck costs around R$3,500.
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